2004 Audi A3 vs. 1993 BMW M3
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 BMW M3 (281 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 2004 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 BMW M3 weights approximately 255 kg more than 2004 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 BMW M3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1993 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1993 BMW M3 (321 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 173 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1993 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1993 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 65 L |
